Marriage

[woolley]

Why does anyone bother getting married these days? The law takes care of most of the important things - like children - whether you're married or what, so does it have any relevance these days? It seems to me that it's a colossal waste of money.

[rekstout]

In practical terms it is still financially more sensible to marry than to live together for several reasons (ignoring the cost of marriage). For example Capital Gains Tax can be reduced by using your spouses allowance Many other tax implications as well. Other practicalities are things like naming children - which surname to use. This can lead to all sorts of difficulties as well as family trouble. Speaking as a someone who recently got engaged, I am doing it because it is an expression of commitment to my fiancee. All relationships need work and it is all too easy to walk away when the going gets tough. Marriage is a way of saying that you're willing to see the bad times out together. Also, most people I know would say that it is still far more socially acceptable to have children within a marriage than outside of one. It's not something that should be taken lightly though and I think far too many people marry for the wrong reasons like family pressure, wanting the Big Day, fear of losing one's partner and stagnant relationships. Besides, surely there must be a teeny tiny bit of a romantic in everyone. If not then then that's a shame.

[charlottemis]

Marriage,first of all,shouldnt be about money at all. I most certainly agree that not everyone should be married. However,I still think when it comes to children,the best way to raise a child is with TWO parents who love each other,not who pay child support and live in seperate places. Marriage is not easy,a mistake most people think it is. It takes work,and patience,and alot of understanding,but when you find the right person,it is defintely worth it. My question to you,is what is so great about being single? As we age,our options are less and less,and it nice to have someone to grow old with.